International 
. While there are a number of constructive improvements that can translate into an improvement in the energy efficiency levels of buildings, reflected in the utility bill, improvements at the level of the lighting system are the most popular option among Facility Managers to achieve this end, according to a new report from the energy solutions provider Noesis.
The study points to several factors as an explanation for the popularity of lighting improvements, including their simple application, short recovery periods, and a consistently high rate of return.
The study, which analyzed data from more than 1,300 projects with a combined value of more than $500 million, found that lighting upgrades were made much more frequently than other types of improvements. Upgrading HVAC systems was the second most popular type of renovation, followed by automation of solar energy systems and projects.
However, although it is the most popular improvement, the researchers did not find that investment in lighting had the highest rate of return of all the types of projects studied. Automation and control systems have a higher return on investment at 44%.
